Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, aged 80, declared his candidacy for a fourth presidential term on Sunday, August 2, 2026. Speaking at a convention of his Worker’s Party (PT) in Sao Paulo attended by around 3,000 people, Lula highlighted his stamina and good health as key factors in his decision to run again.
“That’s why I walk for an hour,” Lula said, adding he is far fitter now than when he was first elected in 2002. The veteran leftist, a prominent figure in Latin American politics, made a notable comeback three years ago after returning to power following a jail term on corruption charges that were later annulled.
Brazil’s constitution permits presidents to serve two consecutive terms, but after sitting out at least one term, they can run again without a lifetime limit on the number of terms. Lula’s announcement comes amid looming pressure from the administration of US President Donald Trump, which is expected to influence the upcoming campaign.
Lula remains a polarizing figure in Brazil, both loved and despised in near-equal measure.
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